New Retro

Two books in one, a concise history of graphic design and an astute selection of contemporary work that makes great use of past inspiration. Reinterpreting the past - the greatest form of creative flattery - never goes out of fashion. But in a climate oversaturated with slick technologically driven imagery, there has been a return to the comfort of familiar imagery and typography, particularly from the 20th century. Drawing on classic examples from the history of graphic design, New Retro shows how the past can be updated to the needs of today.

The book is organized into three distinct parts: an introduction to retro design and when it is appropriate to the brief; an historical survey of graphic design including timelines of key figures, movements and pieces that illustrate the evolution of important styles; and a large portfolio section showcasing the best international design produced in recent years and presented by application: editorial, packaging, identity, promotional, typography and type design.

New Retro is an essential reference book and will prove invaluable to students, for whom much of the book's content will be entirely new, and to design professionals, who are always looking for inspiration from the past. Written and presented by two design professionals with an in-depth knowledge of international graphic design, Dermody and Breathnach's insightful and informative texts and handsome layouts make New Retro an invaluable resource.